Israeli-Palestinian violence continues unabated, with Hamas reportedly approving the release of 34 hostages potentially part of a ceasefire agreement. An unnamed Hamas official relayed this information to Reuters, though the identities of the hostages, and their current status, remain unclear.
Israel, however, denies receiving any such list from Hamas. The Prime Minister's Office informed CNN that Hamas has not yet provided a list of hostages. Negotiations in Doha for a wider ceasefire remain stalled. Escalating tensions, with both sides ratcheting up pressure, precede Donald Trump's upcoming inauguration, adding further uncertainty to the conflict.
Meanwhile, Israeli strikes in Gaza killed 14 people over the weekend, bringing the total to 102 fatalities in the conflict, as reported by Palestinian medics. This comes as the region's already dire humanitarian situation worsens with winter weather, increasing vulnerability, especially among children, as severe cold adds to the ongoing food shortages and internal displacement crisis.
The release of a video showing Liri Albag, a 19-year-old Israeli hostage, prompted a strong plea from her family for the release of all remaining hostages. The family, deeply distressed by Albag's apparent psychological state, urged the Israeli government to expedite a resolution.
The protracted conflict, exceeding a year in duration, has spurred international condemnation, with groups like Amnesty International labeling it a genocide. Further complicating the situation, the Biden administration is reportedly planning a new $8 billion arms package for Israel.
